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Information Technology

The study of information technology (IT) is about harnessing computer technology to serve the needs of business, government, healthcare, education, E-commerce, manufacturing, entertainment, and other sectors. The BS in Information Technology degree prepares students to become future IT professionals with knowledge and practical hands-on expertise in current and emerging technologies and to grow into leadership positions or pursue research or graduate studies in the field.

The program is career-oriented and flexible; it lets students choose their own path to success. Through its core curriculum and choice of concentration areas, students will gain technical competency to assume a variety of IT jobs in areas such as network and system administration, information security, database applications, web development, software integration, and helpdesk/end-user support and work in a broad spectrum of sectors such as government, business, healthcare, education, and manufacturing.

Through experiential learning, hands-on practice and labs, real-world projects, problem solving in context, general studies, meaningful internships, tailored advisory, and alumni mentorship, the IT program aims for its graduates to achieve the following broad learning outcomes1:

  1. Explain and apply appropriate information technologies and employ appropriate methodologies to help an individual or organization achieve its goals and objectives;
  2. Function as a user advocate;
  3. Manage the information technology resources of an individual or organization;
  4. Anticipate the changing direction of information technology and evaluate and communicate the likely utility of new technologies to an individual or organization;
  5. Understand and, in some cases, contribute to the scientific, mathematical and theoretical foundations on which information technologies are built;
  6. Live and work as a contributing, well-rounded member of society.

1The six broad goals of IT program are defined by Information Technology 2008 Curriculum Guide for Undergraduate Degree Programs in Information Technology (Association of Computing Machinery, 2008)

B.S. in Information Technology - Declaring a Major

Students considering an IT major can apply as soon as they complete all pre-major requirements and satisfy major admission criteria. Prospective students must submit their application packages to the IT admission coordinator for review and approval.

The following minimum criteria must be met for a student to be considered for admission into the major:

  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.
  • Satisfying at least one of the following two requirements:
    1. ACT Math score of 23 or higher, or SAT Math score of 540 or higher.
    2. A grade of C+ or better in MAT 130.
  • A grade of B or better in both GSR 150 and ITS 110.
  • Completion of an application form and a 1-2 page statement outlining career goals.

To continue and graduate in the program, IT majors must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 in major courses. Students whose GPA falls below the requirements will be placed on probation and given one semester to restore their GPA to the target. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the major. All IT majors must complete at least one internship in their chosen field and are strongly encouraged to seek IT certifications prior to graduation.

To continue in the IT major, a student must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 in both major and non-major courses. All IT majors must complete at least one internship in their chosen field prior to graduation.

Undergraduate Majors and Minors offered: